Maru the Shiba Inu

Maru the Shiba Inu was born on October 20, 2007. He started his career when his owner started posting his pictures online which gained him millions of followers. He has built an impressive following of more than 2.5 million fans across social media platforms. He has been given numerous nicknames on media outlets. Most notably, fans were captivated and began to buy photo books of his lovely smile. We are going to celebrate this amazing dog’s special day with you.

Fast Facts

Full Name:

Maru the Shiba Inu

Birth date:

October 20, 2007

Age:

16

Zodiac Sign:

Libra

Relationship Status:

Single

Net Worth:

$1.5 million

Maru's Social Media:

Background

Maru the Shiba Inu was born on October 22, 2007, in Japan. His zodiac sign is Libra. Under the handle ‘marutaro,’ he has developed a follower base of over 2.6 million on Instagram. He’s been dubbed “The Smiliest Dog in Japan” on social media, among other things. The constant smile on his cute face is said to bring peace and joy to people in their hearts. In December 2007, his Japanese owner, Shinjiro Ono, posted the first video of him on YouTube, titled “My darling pup (Japanese Shiba-dog).” Maru was discovered in December 2007 inside a pet shop by Ono, who believes the puppy was overlooked because of his round body. On Christmas Eve, Ono bought the puppy and named him Maru. They grew inextricably linked.

After the Great East Japan Earthquake, Ono began collecting images of the adorable Shiba Inu and publishing them online to provide some sweet comfort. For three years, he submitted three images every day. Since joining Instagram, the number of his international followers has increased, and the comment section has become flooded with English, Chinese, Korean, Russian, and Arabic languages. He currently has supporters from over 100 different nations.

In Japan, there is a market for Maru, quite literally mugs and books which have his cute face on them are produced and sold to his fans and admirers. The earnings go to a rescue organization for dogs and other animals, which will aid many poor canines in need. In 2018, Adobe Systems moved ahead and hired the highly Instagram-renowned good lad Maru to the ever-important post of chief advertiser. In 2021, Maru received his ‘AKC S.T.A.R.’ puppy award and his ‘AKC Trick Dog Novice’ title. Maru has tried and done well at Barn Hunt also.

Career timeline

2007
The First appearance on YouTube

Maru is first introduced to the world in a YouTube video filmed by his owner Shinjiro Ono.

2011
The Pictures Surface on the Internet

After Japan's terrible earthquake, Maru's owner begins posting images of Maru on social media.

2015
Maru Becomes the First Japan Tourism Ambassador

He is chosen as Japan's new tourism ambassador, the first nonhuman to do so.

2018
Maru Becomes a New Employee of Adobe

Adobe Systems appoints Maru as chief advertiser of the company.

Why We Love Maru the Shiba Inu

  1. His photos are always delightful

    Maru always looks good in any picture he is in, he is very pleasing to look at. He’s also been featured in art galleries.

  2. He is very optimistic

    No matter the circumstances, Maru always has a large smile on his face. He encourages fans to smile and be joyful as well.

  3. He showcases the Japanese culture

    Maru educates us on everything Japanese, including the yearly cherry blossom festival. He makes us wish we were also from Japan.

5 Surprising Facts

  1. Maru was an unwanted dog

    His owner bought him when he was the last dog left in the pet shop.

  2. Maru gets along with cats

    He is very well-behaved and gets along with cats.

  3. Maru's name means ‘circle’

    His owner named him Maru which means circle in English.

  4. Maru has a panda backpack

    One would wonder what he keeps in there; maybe his treats?

  5. He’s been featured in art galleries

    He looks good in pictures and he is an inspiration to may an artist.

Maru the Shiba Inu FAQs

What does Maru weigh?

He is 40 pounds in weight.

Is Maru the Shiba Inu still alive in 2022?

Yes, Maru the Shiba Inu is still alive.

Why is Maru the best dog in the world?

Maru is a bright, beautiful, and inquisitive dog. This makes him an excellent family dog because he is constantly thrilled about new family outings and wants to play. He also brings smiles to the many faces of his followers on social media.

Maru the Shiba Inu’s birthday dates

YearDateDay
2024October 20Sunday
2025October 20Monday
2026October 20Tuesday
2027October 20Wednesday
2028October 20Friday

Holidays Straight to Your Inbox

Every day is a holiday!
Receive fresh holidays directly to your inbox.